Even though cremation has only gained popularity in Western cultures in recent years, it has been around for at least 20,000 years. The oldest recorded evidence of a body being cremated as part of a burial ritual is the Mungo lady whose oxidized remains were found in Australia. Many ancient civilizations in the Middle East and Europe practiced this tradition which carried over to modern times.

Through the millennia, people’s remains were cremated either out of religious reasons, as is the practice in Hinduism and Jainism, or out of practical reasons. When the plague hit Europe in the 19th century, people cremated the dead to stop the spread of the disease. Now in the 21st century, people requested to be cremated simply because they wanted to, and this is a perfectly acceptable reason.

People want to be cremated or want their loved ones to be cremated for a number of reasons. First, the cost of cremation is only a small fraction of the cost of a traditional burial service. Cremating the body eliminates the added cost of having a metal casket, a spot in the cemetery, and regular maintenance of the grave. Cremating does not necessarily eliminate the cost of a wake and a ceremony because people can still choose to have these things.

Cremating is also more environmentally friendly because the fluids used for embalming are made out of harmful chemicals while cremating satisfies the Clean Air Act of the United States Environmental Protection Agency or EPA. Decomposition also harms the land a body is buried under.

Another reason people get cremated is because of their beliefs. This does not mean purely religious beliefs, it can also be philosophical. Some people just have their views on death whether it is their fear of decaying, belief that a body shouldn’t stay on earth forever, or their wish to be scattered in a place significant to them.

Some even believe cremation will ease the grieving process because it is easier for loved ones to look at an urn containing ashes rather than a casket still with the body. But it is also for this reason that cremating gets a bad rep. Some think that opting for crematory services makes grieving more impersonal and detached. But as mentioned above, people who choose crematory services can still choose to hold a funeral service whether it is before or after the body gets cremated.

If you still have questions about the cremation process, funeral homes like Gentry Griffey Funeral Chapel and Crematory will assist you every step of the way.

They are the only funeral home in Knox County, Tennessee that has an on-site crematory. You do not need to go out-of-town if you are in the Knoxville area and you want a crematory service.

In addition, their crematory has a viewing room where families can choose to be present during the process. This is just one of the many instances Gentry Griffey lets you choose how you want things to be done. They do not limit your options and they listen to what you want.

You have the option for a direct cremation wherein the body is cremated with no funeral service. Or you can request to have a traditional visitation and a wake prior to the final disposition. During this time, you can choose if you want a traditional casket or a crematory casket. The latter will cost less as it uses lighter materials.

After the crematory process, your loved one’s ashes will be protected either inside a temporary container or an urn if you have already chosen one. At the point where your family is now in possession of the urn, you can finally carry out the deceased’s final wishes or your own if the decease did not leave you with instructions.

Knowing that you have kept your promise to your loved one will greatly ease your grief. There have been many people who found scattering the ashes in a place significant to them or the deceased to be better than therapy. If you need further grief counseling, that is just one of the many services Gentry Griffey offers. They know how to assist you with a perfect balance of comfort and professionalism during this difficult time in your life.

Author Bio:Griffey Funeral Chapel and Crematory has been the head North Knoxville Funeral Home following 1948. They are the main burial service home in Knox County, Tennessee that has an on location crematory. Visit here www.gentrygriffey.com website for more information about cremation.

You might not have heard of military coins but you probably have seen them, at least in the movies—the ones that are pinned to a soldier’s badge or uniform. Though these coins look like regular currency coins at first glance, they actually bear a design unique to the characteristics of a certain military unit. Symbols and mottos of the union are engraved on either zinc alloy or bronze plates. Most of these coins are circular or square; however, pentagon-shaped, shield-like, and dog tag-like ones are increasingly becoming popular.

The Origin of the Coin

Military coins, which are also called challenge coins, can be traced way back to World War I. During this time, soldiers, both men and women, were given military coins as a sign of camaraderie and unity. The bearer of the coin had to live up to the honor, having to prove that he is worth it and the accolade entrusted upon him by the state.

The avenues through which a man could prove his credibility to have the coin were to fight during a war in service to his nation, get involved in patriotic campaigns, or offer any special service to his community. These coins are also given as a medal of service to the soldiers when they retire, a good remembrance to what they have done for the country.

Examples of Existing Coins

The US government have a specific coin designed for each military service; examples of which are the Marine Corps coins, the Navy coins, and the Vietnam challenge coins. These coins are a source of pride to the soldiers who have them. Sometimes, the coins also show the soldiers’ ranks during their service; and the soldiers have every right to put these coins in their badge and display them. This is the reason why any country would willingly spend a lot to mint and distribute this type of coin to its soldiers.

The Evolution of its Design

The design of these coins has evolved with time. Compared to the coins in the past that come with two colors at best, the coins now can have more varying colors, paving the way to more options in design. This change in the physical appearance of these coins is a result of the improvement in technology in both coin minting and design. In the past, most military coins were also not as good as they had faint emblems. Their prints could also not be easily read. Today the coins have more prominent insignia and crispier letter edgings.

Another improvement that has been made possible recently is that these coins are no longer limited to the people who are and have been a member of a military unit. Anyone can now have these coins custom-made so that they’ll resemble the ones distributed in camps. Personal specifications, such as adding one’s name, can also be requested to suit one’s taste and preferences.

Additionally, ordering in bulk is also no longer required; in fact, one can order just one custom-made coin without blowing away one’s budget. This is because manufacturers now have 3D printing tools, which allows coin makers to achieve even the most complicated designs while cutting the production cost more than in half.

Other Uses of Military Coins

The use of challenge coins has evolved over the years. The government and some private societies started using it to show alliance. They are used as presents to highly valued guests in the country or in an organization. The American presidents have been trading coins with dignitaries, especially to the heads of states or other countries who visit the White House.

Author Bio:Challenge Coins 4 Less is your one-stop hotspot for extraordinary custom coins and test coins of numerous sorts. Military coins ,which are also called challenge coins, can be traced way back to World War I.

Every internet marketer and website manager dreams of seeing their websites claiming the number one spot on the search engine rankings. Nevertheless, it takes a considerable amount of effort and practice in order to select the right keywords and claim that top spot. Also, there is a huge difference between the amount of web traffic and visibility that a webpage can achieve at the first page compared to the 10th or even the 2nd page. This means that if you want to get recognized by your prospective customers and to rake in some income using web traffic, you will need to find a way to optimize your page and monopolize those rankings.

Unfortunately, getting that coveted top spot is no easy task for anyone who is inexperienced with SEO techniques. That is why it is often best to enlist the aid of a professional SEO company or expert who is familiar with both the platform and your specific needs. Chronis Tsempelis is one of the best in this specific field and if you want to learn more about his work and his services then you should read on and discover how he can help you become the most popular website on almost every search engine.

Who is Chronis Tsempelis?

Chronistsempelis is an SEO and Internet Marketing expert based in the United States. He established the SEO Company MarketRaise Corp. and currently manages it as the CEO. His company specializes in providing Internet solutions and software development for all US-based businesses. His main website lists all of his other wide-ranging services such as SEO, website design and optimization, product promotion, e-commerce, and many more. You can simply reach out to him through his website in order to get a quote for his SEO services.

What you should do before hiring an SEO company or expert?

Though Chronistsempelis places great importance on informing his prospective clients, it is still recommended that you perform some prior research about basic website optimization. Likewise, you should look into the specifics of your website’s marketing capacity so that you will be able to formulate better questions for your SEO consultant. After all, simply asking generic questions will likely yield similarly generic answers that will not be able to address your needs.

Additionally, you should educate yourself on white hat SEO techniques since these are the tried-and-tested methods that are guaranteed to work on most commercial search engines. A good SEO company will only make use of proper keyword targeting and will never resort to using black hat techniques such as keyword stuffing that can compromise content quality and even get you penalized. Chronistsempelis will ensure that only the most innovative internet marketing techniques will be used to give your website that much needed boost in income-generating traffic and rankings.

You should also be prepared to spend a considerable amount for the specific service that you require. Though some SEO companies might tempt you with significantly cheaper rates, you should still go for the one that offers better and more reliable service quality. After all, you should bear in mind that when you hire an expert such as Chronistsempelis you are not merely paying for his personal knowledge, but the software and tools that will be used to configure and optimize your website as well.

Lastly, to further ease your mind regarding the costs of hiring an SEO expert or company, you should remember that you do have the option of asking for case studies about your prospective company’s past clients. If possible, request for the names and contact details of these past clients so that you can verify if the SEO Company is capable of handling your specific campaign. Be wary of a company that refuses to divulge client lists since this might mean they are trying to hide any past failures or misdemeanors.

Printed circuit boards or PCBs have become major parts of electronic mechanisms. They have become major parts of electronic gadgets and machineries; in fact, there are electronic items that will be almost impossible to make without these PCBs.

Why are printed circuit boards preferred for use of these devices? What makes them ideal for these tools? Read on to see the best reasons for using printed circuit boards.

Comes in a Compact Size

A printed circuit board has a lot of electronic components, yet these workings are small in size. A PCB makes it possible for these minute parts to be connected using wires; it serves as a platform for arranging components in a time-saving and space-saving way.

Its compact size also allows the modification of large and complex electronic circuits but still taking up less space in those devices. Not only does it have a reduced size, its components end up being lighter as well.

Easier Reproduction Printed circuit boards or PCBs have become major parts of electronic mechanisms

PCBs will end up cheaper if you need to use multiple circuit boards with the same design. Printing designs will be more efficient, plus it’ll be effortless to have uniform design.You’ll have a number of boards with identical features which will be hard to achieve if you’ll have to manually attach the parts without using PCBs. To add, PCBs can even be done in minutes.

You don’t require further inspection as the boards are electronically designed. The reproduced boards will be easier to use and the printed circuitry gives you less chances of error. pcbnet.com provides detailed view of PCBs.

Minimal Noise

If properly installed, PCBs can lessen electronic noise that contributes to a degrading performance. A PCB produces low radiation and it picks up electromagnetic waves due to its arrangement wherein there are smaller path lengths where electrical currents travel.

When electrical currents travel in smaller paths, there will be lower cross-talk between electronic components, hence avoiding one of the major problems in electronic circuits.

Fewer Worries about Movement

The components of a PCB are fixed on the board using a solder flux. Because of this, the components won’t move regardless of the board’s movement. You don’t have to worry about complex wires and loose components attached all over your board.

This feature allows you to place the electronic circuit on devices that move or shake without worrying that the circuit will be detached, or that you’ll experience short circuits due to the copper tracks being embedded on the board.

Makes Diagnostics and Repair Easier

Diagnostics are easier to conduct through the use of PCBs. PCBs that are well-designed have components and polarities that are clearly labeled – this makes installation and repair convenient. Your inspection time is lessened; printed circuitry removes the chances of error.

Diagnostics are less difficult because the traces are well-organized and exposed, and so the said signal paths will be easier to trace. Maintenance will also be easier because the built is simpler. Your personnel don’t even require a lot of training and technical skills.

Years ago, electronic products were created manually. Computers and computer-guided tools aren’t present to assist layout designers and design engineers. You can only imagine how difficult it was for them to create copper tracks and other similar tasks. Verification tools weren’t even present to see how the products will function. Creating and checking was expensive, time-consuming and prone to mistakes.

Today, thankfully there is the presence of the printed circuit boards, through which you’d clearly have your advantages if they are what you choose to use. Most gadgets nowadays use printed circuit boards, and you see how they function so well. Consumers demand more from gadget manufacturers, on which the manufacturers are more than happy to provide their needs with the help of printed circuit boards.

Hybrid clubs emerged during the 1990s to help golfers with low striking power. These aim to increase accurate shots and make golfers lift the ball higher. However, the original plan is an improvement in the loft. The outcome is different. It resulted to a greater distance when hitting the ball. As the name implies, a hybrid club is the combination of features of two clubs. The modification is a slight or a considerable one to produce versatility and improve performance.

Should you use a hybrid or stick to your irons? Before you could answer this question, read on the different factors involved in using a hybrid.

Accuracy

Hybrid golf clubs offer an increase in accuracy of hitting the ball due to its bigger club head. Accuracy also refers to the forgiving nature of the club. With a hybrid club, players have the higher probability of landing a ball nearer the green. This happens since the club head created a suitable contact with the ball, hitting it accurately into the fairway. In order to maximize accuracy, substitute your irons with hybrid clubs, one notch higher than the number of the iron you want to replace.

Trajectory

The trajectory is the path the ball makes through space after the club head’s impact. Hybrid clubs have a higher trajectory compared to your typical iron sets. This trajectory is a crucial factor in reaching the green. It may or may not give you the distance that you need to reach the fairway and nearer to the green. Though hybrid club heads are larger and lower center of gravity, swing stance is also important. Your stance helps in achieving the proper path for the ball to land in the right spot that is the fairway or the green.

Distance

A hybrid club has a number that denotes the corresponding iron it replaces. For example, a 4-hybrid replaces a 4-iron. However, in most cases, this kind of substitution creates confusion and misinterpretation to golfers. When substituting a hybrid with the same numbered iron, players most likely hit the ball farther with the hybrid. This happens since the hybrid clubs have a different loft, club head, and shaft length. The club head of a hybrid has a deeper center of gravity in comparison to its counterpart in the iron set. Thus, in making a replacement, you should take note of your own striking power and experiences during a play.

Technique

When used correctly, hybrids offer many advantages that you can use in your play. Use a hybrid club depending on the area of the golf course. For example, if you are in the tee area, use the hybrid as if you are using a fairway wood. The swing motion is similar to a sweeping motion (as if you are holding a broom). Remember, hybrid clubs have a lower center of gravity. This characteristic offers a greater distance when you hit a ball. Thus, you do not have to make an upswing to lift the ball off the tee. Otherwise, you might land the ball in the unwanted and difficult area of the course.

Hybrid golf clubs are a great addition in your golf bag. If you are not skillful with your swing, using a hybrid enhances your play. You may replace your irons with hybrids, but you also have to consider your skills and striking power in choosing the right replacement. These clubs are powerful when you use the right technique. These are also versatile and you can use them anywhere in the golf course, except in the putting green. You can use these hybrids to get you out of the rough, or a sand trap.

Rockbottomgolf is glad to offer a wide assortment of new and utilized hybrid clubs and golf clubs.

Neck lanyards are versatile accessories that have been widely used by businesses to promote their brand. But there are more to them than you think. Small and large companies use them as part of their marketing tools because they can be custom made to suit their requirements and budget constraints. Hence, it is not surprising that they have become popular today.

For those who are looking for marketing tools but are not sure how to choose among the many options available in the market now, here are the most important benefits of neck lanyards:

1. Versatility

Lanyards are versatile. It is one of the most useful “accessories” that you can put around your neck. A lanyard can have several hooks and attachments to hold an assortment of things, your badge, USB flash drive, pouch, or even your cellular phone. In sporting competitions and charity fun runs, they are used to help identify certain people, like the referee or the first aider.

2. More exposure for your brand

Neck lanyards can do more than just hold your badge, identification card, or name tag. They are also used as advertisement during corporate events, motor shows, seminars, and trade shows. Companies usually utilize these lanyards to showcase their brand name to a wider audience. They are also given away to employees as token or reminder of a particular event or achievement.

3. Cost efficient

Neck lanyards are cheaper compared to other popular promotional products. Some are usually made of plastic with a band attachment that can be conveniently hung around the neck. There are manufacturers and retailers that offer huge discounts for bulk purchases. Using these lanyards does not require too much work and preparation since you can simply attach the printed name tags or ID cards easily.

4. Convenience

The wearer is ensured of comfort and convenience for ID cards, keys, and mobile phones, especially when one needs to move around much, whether in the office or event venue. They are safe and easily available when needed. Wearing lanyards with some very important, but frequently misplaced items make it easier to find them; instead of rummaging through your purse, pocket, or bag every time they are needed.

Since you can wear them around your neck, your hands are free to perform any other tasks that need attention. Taking off the lanyard is easy, as well, since most types usually have clasps that you can break free quickly without any damage.

5. Customizable

They are highly customizable. You may opt to use the official color of the company or use any color that reflects which type of business and/or products that you have. While they are usually made from nylon, there are lanyards that are polyester-made that can be personalized according to your requirement.

Companies also have the option to have their company name or slogan to be printed out into each lanyard. Some even have their company slogan and/or theme printed. There are a lot of options when you use lanyards for marketing.

6. Durability

Some companies use these lanyards for the IDs of their employees; hence, they need durable and long-lasting lanyards. Aside from nylon and plastic that are meant for long-term use, there are also lanyards that are made from woven materials.

These neck lanyards can be your company’s new best friend. They can effectively introduce, transport, and promote your brand more than any other promotional item today. While they are not as technologically complicated, they are the most multi-functional tools that you can use. They are convenient, not too costly, easily available, made from light materials, and they are perfect for everyday use.

The lanyard authority you’ll find all sorts of useful information regarding neck lanyards all in one place.Whether you’re purchasing lanyards for your next big event or gathering information for your own online lanyard business .

With today’s fashion trends, it won’t be hard to recognize that the band business is a gold mine. Not the music kind of band, but the accessories that are worn on the arm. If you are looking to start up a business anytime soon, you might want to consider venturing into this mine. All it takes is a bit of creativity on your part, and you are sure to go a long way. Some widely popular band accessories are silicon wristbands and loom bands. Children, teens, young adults and even adults are so into this trend.

The most popular of rubber accessories are the loom bands. The maker uses a plastic loom to weave together rubber bands and make them into necklaces, bracelets and charms. The rubber bands are usually very bright and colorful, making them very appealing to people of all ages. It may sound outrageous, but the craze for loom bands has indeed taken the world by storm. People buy them, wear them and make them. People are so into it that creations are not limited to bands or bracelets. Bags and dresses – and yes, even lingerie! – made of loom bands are being crafted, too! The multi-colored elastic bands have become charms, hobbies and businesses. It has grown to more than a fad, but an inspiration to art and fashion across the globe. Even the Duchess of Cambridge was seen sporting a loom band. Why not jump in the bandwagon and make the most of this recent and highly profitable trend?

Silicon wristbands, on the other hand, have continued to dominate the market ever since it was first introduced a decade ago. As a tool to raise funds and promote cancer awareness, the first wristbands have brought a sense of unity among the wearers. It has gained such a positive response and reputation, that wristbands are now utilized as corporate giveaways, awareness tools and fundraising items. They are being ordered in bulk, customized with company names or logos and event titles.

Like rubber bands, silicon wristbands are available in many different colors, and messages can be printed in single or multi-color designs, too. They are very elastic, can be easily stretched over the wrists, and are reasonably water and heat-resistant. These wristbands are popular for all age groups, just like loom band accessories. They have become a trendy fashion accessory for men and women alike.

The rubber wristband is highly popular because it can be customized to convey or display a message. From a single word or a phrase, the preferences of a user can be fit into the wristband. After color selection and pattern design, the method of printing would be considered.

Some of the print methods for lettering formats include:

1. Debossing – An imprint mold is used to recess the text into the silicon.

2. Embossing – The process is similar to debossing, only the letters are raised or protruded on the silicon bracelet.

4. Screen Printing – By using silk screen, the text is applied to the silicon directly. The text color is different from the color of the band. Screen printing can be done on both sides of the bracelet.

Rubber has become an example of recreational merchandise, and ornamental rubber-based accessories have penetrated the jewelry industry and carved its own niche. This is so true, and is a good opportunity for business. As companies harness the popular trend in silicon wristbands, and as loom bands are all the rage on a personal level, why not take a risk at being creative yourself? It is never too late to start and profit from your own rubber accessories venture.

At the-wristband-factory you can review our custom silicon wristband gallery to see competitive wristband pricing and the creativity of our art department.

Contrary to contemporary belief, the term “steroids” does not exclusively pertain to anabolic drugs. Steroids are organic compounds that include sex hormones, lipid cholesterols, sterols, bile acids and drugs. Steroidal drugs, when used properly, are utilized to treat a variety of diseases especially when the body’s natural defense system has inevitably malfunctioned. Severe inflammation can damage the body’s immune system. In this case, steroidal drugs are also used to treat inflammatory conditions such as gout, asthma, arthritis, vasculitis, lupus and skin conditions like eczema. When an organ is badly inflamed, steroidal drugs are used to spare the patient from organ transplants. Steroidal drugs are very potent thus they are only safe for short term use.

Two most commonly known steroidal drugs are anabolic steroids and corticosteroids. Anabolic steroids are used to build up muscle mass. Corticosteroids are the type of steroids used to reduce inflammation. Anabolic steroids are the type used by athletes and body builders to reduce fat, enhance performance and strength and increase muscle mass within a relatively shorter time. In men, there is a case of “reverse anorexia” where they see themselves as not bulky enough. Anabolic steroids and steroid alternatives are both popular in muscle building.

Administration of Anabolic Steroids

Anabolic steroids are often injected into the muscle. Other types include creams, gels, and tablets. People who take anabolic steroids are very much aware of the side effects. They have employed techniques called cycling and stacking which they claim to reduce the side effects of anabolic steroids.

Side Effect of Anabolic Steroids

In the world of sports and body building, steroids can turn an ordinary man into a superhuman; a being with impressive endurance and strength. Anabolic steroids mimic the effects of testosterone. However they present a great deal of undesirable side effects. Steroid alternatives are the next safe option when it comes to building muscle mass fast. However anabolic steroids and steroid alternatives are not prescribed by any doctor to build muscle for aesthetic purposes. Both men are women who use anabolic steroids for a period of time experience aggressiveness, mood swings, violent behavior and hallucinations. More life threatening side effects when using anabolic steroids include blood clots in veins, heart attack, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and liver and kidney tumors. The liver and the kidney are the two most vital body organ when it comes to filtering and metabolizing chemical. Because anabolic steroids are too strong, it inevitable damages the liver and kidneys.

Men run the risk of having a low sperm count, infertility, shrunken testicles, severe acne, baldness and even development of breasts (Gynecomastia). Women taking anabolic steroids are at risk of having excessive facial and bodily hair growth, deepened voice, severe acne, irregular periods, swollen and enlarged clitoris, shrunken breasts and a strong sexual drive.

Before taking anabolic steroids, you must know that they are addictive. You will crave for it whether or not you need it, which makes it more difficult to avoid the side effects. Even though anabolic steroids are destroying your body, your body will continue to crave for it.

All kinds of steroidal drugs, including anabolic steroids, require a doctor’s prescription. Because most people will acquire anabolic steroids from various sources, the steroid’s authenticity and purity is often subject to issues. People taking anabolic steroids may get the real one, fake one and low quality kind. If you are caught possessing illegal drugs, you may face around 5 years in prison. If you start to experience the side effects, doctors will conduct a blood test and may reveal traces of it. Thus, more and more people prefer steroid alternatives from anabolic steroids.